George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Art and Design Foundation
(G108)
Program Details
- Program Code: G108
- Credential: Ontario College Certificate
- Duration: 1 year (2 semester)
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: January, September
- Domestic Tuition: $4,324.00 * †
- International Tuition: $19,395.00 ** †
- Fall 2026 Delivery: Semester 1: On Campus
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Open | Open |
| Winter 2027 | Open | Open |
| Spring 2027 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Get answers to your questions
Book info sessionProgram Description
Program Overview
The Art and Design Foundation certificate program is your gateway to mastering a diverse range of art and design disciplines in just one year. This program offers a rich blend of knowledge and hands-on skills tailored for those eager to expand their creative horizons in a dynamic studio setting. Whether you're aiming to enhance your portfolio or seeking a foundation for advanced studies, this program invites you to unleash your potential in an environment that celebrates innovation and creativity. Join us to transform your artistic passion into a professional pursuit.
Full Description
Embark on a transformative journey with our one-year Art and Design Foundation certificate program, designed to equip you with practical, creative and critical-thinking skills in art and design. Through our immersive studio-based curriculum, you'll develop a compelling portfolio featuring a diverse range of analog and digital projects, positioning you for success in diploma or degree-level programs.
In your first semester, you'll dive into the language of art and design, explore art history and master the basics of observational drawing, form and space, photography and digital design. As you progress to the second semester, you'll hone advanced skills, delve into creative problem-solving techniques, and explore the foundations of colour theory and practice.
Our portfolio showcase workshops connect you with professional practitioners in the creative industries, providing insights into building successful portfolios. Additionally, optional courses allow you to tailor your learning experience to acquire specific skills for your future educational goals.
Join us and unlock your creative potential in an environment that fosters innovation and artistic growth.
General Computer Requirements
- Base model MacBook pro recommended
- 16 gig of RAM
- 1Tb of hard drive space is recommended
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
George Brown Polytechnic has developed several advanced diploma and degree program pathways to help you reach your academic and future career goals.
Advanced Diploma Program Pathways:
Arts and Design Foundation (G108) graduates interested in pursuing a George Brown Polytechnic Advanced Diploma can apply to these programs:
Degree Program Pathways:
Arts and Design Foundation (G108) graduates interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree programs can apply to these programs:
Honours Bachelor of Fine Arts at OCADU* in the following programs:
*OCADU recognizes graduates from George Brown Polytechnic’s Art and Design Foundation program for Year 2 entry, conditions apply.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1019 | Foundation Drawing I: Observational Drawing and Composition |
| ART 1020 | Foundation Design I: Form and Space |
| ART 1029 | Introduction to Digital Media |
| ART 1030 | Introduction to Photography |
| ART 1031 | Art Culture |
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1021 | Foundation Design II: Colour Theory and Practice |
| ART 1036 | Art and Design Portfolio Showcase |
| DESN1020 | Design Process |
Choose three Program related electives from the list below
| Code | Elective Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1024 | Foundation Drawing II: Life Drawing |
| ART 1025 | 3D Materials and Techniques |
| ART 1033 | Multimedia Storytelling |
| ART 1035 | Advanced Digital Media |
| ART 1040 | Painting and Mixed Media Studio |
| ART 1043 | Photography: People, Concepts and Stories |
| DESN1084 | 2D Digital Art I |
Course Outline URL
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Create two- and three-dimensional designs using a wide range of materials, processes and techniques.
- Use the design process to develop and solve visual problems using various strategies for idea generation.
- Apply the formal elements and principles of design.
- Utilize a variety of presentation skills across a wide range of media appropriate to portfolios and public and private venues.
- Develop skills in portfolio presentation in a variety of media through studio-based projects.
- Articulate art concepts, history and the role of art in society for the general public.
- Manage personal digital presence/brand by participating in professional communities of practice.
Art & Design Foundation Information Session
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,324.00 * †
International Tuition
$19,395.00 ** †
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the estimated total tuition, materials (non-refundable), student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 20256and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† Portfolio kit: $200–$300 not included in fees.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
We recommend that applicants should have taken at least one high school-level art class and have some basic experience in areas such as photography, illustration and digital image creation.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Design
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 2137
Email: design@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is part of our School of Design, located at our Waterfront Campus, at 3 Lower Jarvis St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
School of Design Building
The School of Design resides in a new 103,000-square-foot facility in the Daniels Waterfront – City of the Arts development. This state-of-the-art building supports academic programs and industry projects with features such as:
- virtual and augmented reality lab
- usability and testing lab
- future Ways of Living lab
- peer tutor lab
- digital sandbox
- incubators
- prototyping and workshop spaces
- design and innovation showcase spaces
Come and have your questions answered, learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown Polytechnic classroom at one of our information sessions. You can also book a campus tour or explore our virtual tour.
Program Description
Program Overview
The Art and Design Foundation certificate program is your gateway to mastering a diverse range of art and design disciplines in just one year. This program offers a rich blend of knowledge and hands-on skills tailored for those eager to expand their creative horizons in a dynamic studio setting. Whether you're aiming to enhance your portfolio or seeking a foundation for advanced studies, this program invites you to unleash your potential in an environment that celebrates innovation and creativity. Join us to transform your artistic passion into a professional pursuit.
Full Description
Embark on a transformative journey with our one-year Art and Design Foundation certificate program, designed to equip you with practical, creative and critical-thinking skills in art and design. Through our immersive studio-based curriculum, you'll develop a compelling portfolio featuring a diverse range of analog and digital projects, positioning you for success in diploma or degree-level programs.
In your first semester, you'll dive into the language of art and design, explore art history and master the basics of observational drawing, form and space, photography and digital design. As you progress to the second semester, you'll hone advanced skills, delve into creative problem-solving techniques, and explore the foundations of colour theory and practice.
Our portfolio showcase workshops connect you with professional practitioners in the creative industries, providing insights into building successful portfolios. Additionally, optional courses allow you to tailor your learning experience to acquire specific skills for your future educational goals.
Join us and unlock your creative potential in an environment that fosters innovation and artistic growth.
General Computer Requirements
- Base model MacBook pro recommended
- 16 gig of RAM
- 1Tb of hard drive space is recommended
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
George Brown Polytechnic has developed several advanced diploma and degree program pathways to help you reach your academic and future career goals.
Advanced Diploma Program Pathways:
Arts and Design Foundation (G108) graduates interested in pursuing a George Brown Polytechnic Advanced Diploma can apply to these programs:
Degree Program Pathways:
Arts and Design Foundation (G108) graduates interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree programs can apply to these programs:
Honours Bachelor of Fine Arts at OCADU* in the following programs:
*OCADU recognizes graduates from George Brown Polytechnic’s Art and Design Foundation program for Year 2 entry, conditions apply.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1019 | Foundation Drawing I: Observational Drawing and Composition |
| ART 1020 | Foundation Design I: Form and Space |
| ART 1029 | Introduction to Digital Media |
| ART 1030 | Introduction to Photography |
| ART 1031 | Art Culture |
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1021 | Foundation Design II: Colour Theory and Practice |
| ART 1036 | Art and Design Portfolio Showcase |
| DESN1020 | Design Process |
Choose three Program related electives from the list below
| Code | Elective Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1024 | Foundation Drawing II: Life Drawing |
| ART 1025 | 3D Materials and Techniques |
| ART 1033 | Multimedia Storytelling |
| ART 1035 | Advanced Digital Media |
| ART 1040 | Painting and Mixed Media Studio |
| ART 1043 | Photography: People, Concepts and Stories |
| DESN1084 | 2D Digital Art I |
Course Outline URL
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,324.00 * †
International Tuition
$19,395.00 ** †
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the estimated total tuition, materials (non-refundable), student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 20256and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† Portfolio kit: $200–$300 not included in fees.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
We recommend that applicants should have taken at least one high school-level art class and have some basic experience in areas such as photography, illustration and digital image creation.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Create two- and three-dimensional designs using a wide range of materials, processes and techniques.
- Use the design process to develop and solve visual problems using various strategies for idea generation.
- Apply the formal elements and principles of design.
- Utilize a variety of presentation skills across a wide range of media appropriate to portfolios and public and private venues.
- Develop skills in portfolio presentation in a variety of media through studio-based projects.
- Articulate art concepts, history and the role of art in society for the general public.
- Manage personal digital presence/brand by participating in professional communities of practice.
Art & Design Foundation Information Session
Contact Us
School of Design
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 2137
Email: design@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is part of our School of Design, located at our Waterfront Campus, at 3 Lower Jarvis St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
School of Design Building
The School of Design resides in a new 103,000-square-foot facility in the Daniels Waterfront – City of the Arts development. This state-of-the-art building supports academic programs and industry projects with features such as:
- virtual and augmented reality lab
- usability and testing lab
- future Ways of Living lab
- peer tutor lab
- digital sandbox
- incubators
- prototyping and workshop spaces
- design and innovation showcase spaces
Come and have your questions answered, learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown Polytechnic classroom at one of our information sessions. You can also book a campus tour or explore our virtual tour.
Visit Waterfront Campus
Book campus tourGet answers to your questions
Book info sessionVisit Waterfront Campus
Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms
Art and Design Foundation
(G108)
Program Details
- Program Code: G108
- Credential: Ontario College Certificate
- Duration: 1 year (2 semester)
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: January, September
- Domestic Tuition: $4,339.00 * †
- International Tuition: $18,900.00 ** †
- Spring 2026 Delivery: Semester 2: On Campus
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2025 | Closed | Closed |
| Winter 2026 | Closed | Closed |
| Spring 2026 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Get answers to your questions
Book info sessionProgram Description
Program Overview
The Art and Design Foundation certificate program is your gateway to mastering a diverse range of art and design disciplines in just one year. This program offers a rich blend of knowledge and hands-on skills tailored for those eager to expand their creative horizons in a dynamic studio setting. Whether you're aiming to enhance your portfolio or seeking a foundation for advanced studies, this program invites you to unleash your potential in an environment that celebrates innovation and creativity. Join us to transform your artistic passion into a professional pursuit.
Full Description
Embark on a transformative journey with our one-year Art and Design Foundation certificate program, designed to equip you with practical, creative and critical-thinking skills in art and design. Through our immersive studio-based curriculum, you'll develop a compelling portfolio featuring a diverse range of analog and digital projects, positioning you for success in diploma or degree-level programs.
In your first semester, you'll dive into the language of art and design, explore art history and master the basics of observational drawing, form and space, photography and digital design. As you progress to the second semester, you'll hone advanced skills, delve into creative problem-solving techniques, and explore the foundations of colour theory and practice.
Our portfolio showcase workshops connect you with professional practitioners in the creative industries, providing insights into building successful portfolios. Additionally, optional courses allow you to tailor your learning experience to acquire specific skills for your future educational goals.
Join us and unlock your creative potential in an environment that fosters innovation and artistic growth.
General Computer Requirements
- Base model MacBook pro recommended
- 16 gig of RAM
- 1Tb of hard drive space is recommended
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
George Brown Polytechnic has developed several advanced diploma and degree program pathways to help you reach your academic and future career goals.
Advanced Diploma Program Pathways:
Arts and Design Foundation (G108) graduates interested in pursuing a George Brown Polytechnic Advanced Diploma can apply to these programs:
Degree Program Pathways:
Arts and Design Foundation (G108) graduates interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree programs can apply to these programs:
Honours Bachelor of Fine Arts at OCADU* in the following programs:
*OCADU recognizes graduates from George Brown Polytechnic’s Art and Design Foundation program for Year 2 entry, conditions apply.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1019 | Foundation Drawing I: Observational Drawing and Composition |
| ART 1020 | Foundation Design I: Form and Space |
| ART 1029 | Introduction to Digital Media |
| ART 1030 | Introduction to Photography |
| ART 1031 | Art Culture |
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1021 | Foundation Design II: Colour Theory and Practice |
| ART 1036 | Art and Design Portfolio Showcase |
| DESN1020 | Design Process |
Choose three Program related electives from the list below
| Code | Elective Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1024 | Foundation Drawing II: Life Drawing |
| ART 1025 | 3D Materials and Techniques |
| ART 1033 | Multimedia Storytelling |
| ART 1035 | Advanced Digital Media |
| ART 1040 | Painting and Mixed Media Studio |
| ART 1043 | Photography: People, Concepts and Stories |
| DESN1084 | 2D Digital Art I |
Course Outline URL
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Create two- and three-dimensional designs using a wide range of materials, processes and techniques.
- Use the design process to develop and solve visual problems using various strategies for idea generation.
- Apply the formal elements and principles of design.
- Utilize a variety of presentation skills across a wide range of media appropriate to portfolios and public and private venues.
- Develop skills in portfolio presentation in a variety of media through studio-based projects.
- Articulate art concepts, history and the role of art in society for the general public.
- Manage personal digital presence/brand by participating in professional communities of practice.
Art & Design Foundation Information Session
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,339.00 * †
International Tuition
$18,900.00 ** †
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the estimated total tuition, materials (non-refundable), student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† Portfolio kit: $200–$300 not included in fees.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
We recommend that applicants should have taken at least one high school-level art class and have some basic experience in areas such as photography, illustration and digital image creation.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Design
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 2137
Email: design@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is part of our School of Design, located at our Waterfront Campus, at 3 Lower Jarvis St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
School of Design Building
The School of Design resides in a new 103,000-square-foot facility in the Daniels Waterfront – City of the Arts development. This state-of-the-art building supports academic programs and industry projects with features such as:
- virtual and augmented reality lab
- usability and testing lab
- future Ways of Living lab
- peer tutor lab
- digital sandbox
- incubators
- prototyping and workshop spaces
- design and innovation showcase spaces
Come and have your questions answered, learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown Polytechnic classroom at one of our information sessions. You can also book a campus tour or explore our virtual tour.
Program Description
Program Overview
The Art and Design Foundation certificate program is your gateway to mastering a diverse range of art and design disciplines in just one year. This program offers a rich blend of knowledge and hands-on skills tailored for those eager to expand their creative horizons in a dynamic studio setting. Whether you're aiming to enhance your portfolio or seeking a foundation for advanced studies, this program invites you to unleash your potential in an environment that celebrates innovation and creativity. Join us to transform your artistic passion into a professional pursuit.
Full Description
Embark on a transformative journey with our one-year Art and Design Foundation certificate program, designed to equip you with practical, creative and critical-thinking skills in art and design. Through our immersive studio-based curriculum, you'll develop a compelling portfolio featuring a diverse range of analog and digital projects, positioning you for success in diploma or degree-level programs.
In your first semester, you'll dive into the language of art and design, explore art history and master the basics of observational drawing, form and space, photography and digital design. As you progress to the second semester, you'll hone advanced skills, delve into creative problem-solving techniques, and explore the foundations of colour theory and practice.
Our portfolio showcase workshops connect you with professional practitioners in the creative industries, providing insights into building successful portfolios. Additionally, optional courses allow you to tailor your learning experience to acquire specific skills for your future educational goals.
Join us and unlock your creative potential in an environment that fosters innovation and artistic growth.
General Computer Requirements
- Base model MacBook pro recommended
- 16 gig of RAM
- 1Tb of hard drive space is recommended
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
George Brown Polytechnic has developed several advanced diploma and degree program pathways to help you reach your academic and future career goals.
Advanced Diploma Program Pathways:
Arts and Design Foundation (G108) graduates interested in pursuing a George Brown Polytechnic Advanced Diploma can apply to these programs:
Degree Program Pathways:
Arts and Design Foundation (G108) graduates interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree programs can apply to these programs:
Honours Bachelor of Fine Arts at OCADU* in the following programs:
*OCADU recognizes graduates from George Brown Polytechnic’s Art and Design Foundation program for Year 2 entry, conditions apply.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1019 | Foundation Drawing I: Observational Drawing and Composition |
| ART 1020 | Foundation Design I: Form and Space |
| ART 1029 | Introduction to Digital Media |
| ART 1030 | Introduction to Photography |
| ART 1031 | Art Culture |
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1021 | Foundation Design II: Colour Theory and Practice |
| ART 1036 | Art and Design Portfolio Showcase |
| DESN1020 | Design Process |
Choose three Program related electives from the list below
| Code | Elective Name |
|---|---|
| ART 1024 | Foundation Drawing II: Life Drawing |
| ART 1025 | 3D Materials and Techniques |
| ART 1033 | Multimedia Storytelling |
| ART 1035 | Advanced Digital Media |
| ART 1040 | Painting and Mixed Media Studio |
| ART 1043 | Photography: People, Concepts and Stories |
| DESN1084 | 2D Digital Art I |
Course Outline URL
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,339.00 * †
International Tuition
$18,900.00 ** †
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the estimated total tuition, materials (non-refundable), student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† Portfolio kit: $200–$300 not included in fees.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
We recommend that applicants should have taken at least one high school-level art class and have some basic experience in areas such as photography, illustration and digital image creation.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Create two- and three-dimensional designs using a wide range of materials, processes and techniques.
- Use the design process to develop and solve visual problems using various strategies for idea generation.
- Apply the formal elements and principles of design.
- Utilize a variety of presentation skills across a wide range of media appropriate to portfolios and public and private venues.
- Develop skills in portfolio presentation in a variety of media through studio-based projects.
- Articulate art concepts, history and the role of art in society for the general public.
- Manage personal digital presence/brand by participating in professional communities of practice.
Art & Design Foundation Information Session
Contact Us
School of Design
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 2137
Email: design@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is part of our School of Design, located at our Waterfront Campus, at 3 Lower Jarvis St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
School of Design Building
The School of Design resides in a new 103,000-square-foot facility in the Daniels Waterfront – City of the Arts development. This state-of-the-art building supports academic programs and industry projects with features such as:
- virtual and augmented reality lab
- usability and testing lab
- future Ways of Living lab
- peer tutor lab
- digital sandbox
- incubators
- prototyping and workshop spaces
- design and innovation showcase spaces
Come and have your questions answered, learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown Polytechnic classroom at one of our information sessions. You can also book a campus tour or explore our virtual tour.
Visit Waterfront Campus
Book campus tourGet answers to your questions
Book info sessionVisit Waterfront Campus
Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms